Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) completed a remarkable turnaround in IPL 2024, securing a playoff spot with a thrilling victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK). While Faf du Plessis was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance, he surprised everyone by dedicating the award to the young hero – Yash Dayal.
Yash Dayal denies Ravindra Jadeja Deja Vu
Chasing a daunting target of 219, CSK needed 10 runs from the last two balls to qualify for IPL playoffs with Ravindra Jadeja on strike.
The scene mirrored the dramatic IPL 2023 final where Jadeja single-handedly took CSK to victory with a similar equation. This time, however, the script flipped. Yash Dayal, entrusted with the final over, held his nerve, bowling two crucial slower balls that deceived Jadeja, securing the win for RCB.
Faf Du Plessis lauds Yash Dayal execution
Despite his own valuable contribution with the bat and a stunning catch, Faf Du Plessis felt Yash Dayal deserved the Player of the Match award.
He praised Yash Dayal’s ability to execute his slower balls effectively on a damp wicket, a skill that proved decisive in the final moments. Du Plessis admitted he had advised Dayal to switch tactics after witnessing the ineffectiveness of yorkers throughout the match.
“Obviously it got a bit close there… at one stage with MS [Dhoni] there, it felt like ‘oh dear, no! Don’t let it go his way.’ He’s done it so many times. I thought the way we bowled with the wet ball… we tried to get the ball changed a few times, but it was tough for the bowlers. For me, I dedicate the Man of the Match to Yash Dayal. The way he bowled tonight was unbelievable. That pressure at the back end for a guy who is pretty new to the role, he deserves the MoM.”
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From rain interruption to Ranchi-like Conditions
A rain break midway through RCB’s innings added another layer of complexity to the match. The wet pitch offered significant turn for CSK spinners, making batting extremely difficult.
Faf Du Plessis described the period after the rain as one of the toughest batting conditions he had ever encountered, comparing it to the challenging conditions faced by batsmen in a day-five Test match at Ranchi.
Middle-Order Heroics Fuel RCB’s Resurgence
Despite the initial batting struggles, RCB’s middle-order rose to the occasion. The quartet of Rajat Patidar, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik, and Glenn Maxwell combined for a quickfire 109 runs off just 51 balls, propelling RCB to a competitive total of 218. Du Plessis highlighted the crucial role the middle-order played in RCB’s resurgence during the latter half of the season.
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Grateful Faf du Plessis acknowledges fan support
Faf du Plessis also expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards RCB’s passionate home crowd. He acknowledged the unwavering support the fans displayed throughout the season, even during the team’s initial slump. He promised the team would perform a lap of honor to personally thank the fans for their unwavering loyalty.
RCB’s remarkable comeback, fueled by Dayal’s heroics and unwavering fan support, sets the stage for an exciting playoff run. Can they continue their momentum and lift the coveted IPL trophy?
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